Plastics Recycling: As from Monday, what you thought could be recycled probably can!

As from next Monday, 30 July, we will all be able to recycle more.  It’s always been a bit of a mystery as to what we can/can’t recycle, particularly regarding plastic waste, but now more can be accepted.

The Blue-Topped Bins (or sacks) will now be able to accept plastic pots, tubs and trays, and drink and food cartons.  Click here for details of what can/can’t now be accepted for recycling.

At last Tuesday’s (26 July) Area Board meeting in the Town Hall, Martin Litherland, head of Waste Management for Wiltshire Council gave an update to all present whilst presenting details of the new arrangement.

Described as an ‘interim service development’ this is a stage towards more comprehensive level of recycling, with the next phase being rolled out in about a years time when even more can be accepted.

Last year 45% of all waste was recycled, with only 20% going to landfill, compared to more than 60% ten years ago.  Last month the landfill proportion was down to a new low of 14%.

“With all the additional recycling, how can we fit all this in a blue-topped bin?”  was a question asked by Marlborough Mayor, Lisa Farrell at the end of the presentation. “Just ask for another one” was the answer, so if you are in danger of filling the blue-topped bin contact the Council and ask for an additional bin.

“I’m sure that many of us already put the ‘newly acceptable’ waste in to the Blue Bin already”  pointed out Deputy Mayor, Mervyn Hall. “What happens to that?”  ”All gets sorted and rejected at the Porte Marsh Centre in Calne” was the reply, followed by “all rejected items go to ‘Energy from Waste’, don’t go to landfill”.

Councillor Jane Davies commended the Waste team on their progress to date, but she was concerned about at the Recycling Centres, particularly relating to access to the units for Garden Waste, especially so for residents with any degree of disability, as now that the low level skips have been replaced by high skips, only accessible by a stairway, hauling a large container up, tipping it over the high lip and emptying it is beyond the practical capability of many, particularly those with any form of disability.  She had heard of complaints about this new arrangement.

In response, Martin Litherland noted that he was aware of the extra use of steps but commented that his team had received many compliments about this new service and how the staff at the Centres had been there to help.

“Where does Wiltshire stand in the country regarding Waste Recycling?”  “Fair to middling” was the answer.   “There is a balance to be struck between financial situation that the Council finds itself in and the affordability of the services that we are able to provide.” “We are trying to squeeze a quart out of a pint pot.”